Are rats like hamsters?

Question

I'm planning on getting a hairless rat tomorrow and I'm wondering how she is going to be different from the hamsters I've had in the past. My hamsters have just sort of been little animals that I take out of the cage for a little while and play with but I don't really have a bond with them and they don't have one with me. Will a rat be different? Will she have a distinct personality and everything?

Answer 1

i had hamsters growing up too, but then i got a rat. i will never go back! they're so friendly and are like mini dogs in personality. also, you should do your girl a favor and get her a sister as well. they do much better in pairs because they're extremely social =)

Answer 2

Please consider adopting 2 rats instead of just one.  Your hairless girl would be happier & more fun to watch if she has a room-mate, & it's best to keep hairless & furry rats together.

Yes, each rat will definately have a unique personality, just like the rest of us.  Rats also learn from each other through observation, so a shy rat will benefit by hanging out with a more adventurous rat.  Also, rats are *much* more interactive & friendly towards people than hamsters are & it doesn't matter how many rat buddies they have, they'll still love you & want to spend time with you.  They'll bond with you very much like a dog or cat would.

Our hairless girl just turned 2 yrs old & has taught the younger girls how to run on the exercise wheel.  Rats are truly awesome little companions & you're in for a wonderful experience.

Answer 3

Rats are definitely much different than hamsters. Rats are very intelligent and crave social interaction with both humans and othe rats, which is why it is absolutely essential that you purchase two rats and not just one, otherwise, you will end up with a very depressed rat. Trust me, I have seen it happen and it is not pleasant for you or the rat to go through. Anyways, rats have a tendency to bond to their owners and have even been labeled the dog of all rodents because they are so loyal and easy to tame. However, there are some drawbacks with rats, they need to be taken out of the cage everyday for at least an hour, so if you have a really busy schedule and cannot devote this time, it will not be good for the rats at all. Female rats should actually be handled and taken out more so than a male because they tend to be much more frisky and energetic...male rats are more likely to cuddle and beg for attention. I am sure that you will notice a big difference between rats and hamsters as well, but please please please get two rats, it really is the most responsible thing you can do to keep them happy. Hope this helped and goodluck!

Answer 4

Most rats do have personalities. One of my friends had 5 rats at different times and they loved them. You can still that them out and hold them . You can also put them on your shoulder and walk around with them.